AMISOM military chiefs meet in Somalia, review exit strategy

MOGADISHU, Somalia -- African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) commanders started a three-day meeting in Mogadishu on Friday to review and evaluate the implementation of the mission's exit strategy.

The so-called Concept of Operations (CONOPs) provides a framework to guide the implementation of AMISOM's gradual transfer of security responsibilities to Somali security forces and exit from Somalia.

The AMISOM commanders will deliberate on progress to implement the CONOPs during the last three months.

The CONOPS will guide the AU mission's military activities and operations for the 2018-2021 period.

Francisco Madeira, the special representative of the chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, commended Somali National Army (SNA) and AMISOM troops for liberating Sabiid, Anole and Bariire, describing it as a milestone in efforts to restore peace and stability in Somalia.

AMISOM and SNA troops captured the strategic towns of Sabiid and Bariire from al-Shabab in April and May.

Tigabu Yilma Wondimhunegn, AMISOM force commander, attributed the success to enhanced coordination between AMISOM, Somali security forces, and international partners.

He said joint operations in the Lower Shabelle region in southern Somalia has positively impacted on the security in Mogadishu city.

"It has significantly reduced incidents of improvised explosive devices explosions and mortar attacks, which Mogadishu had been experiencing," Tigabu said.